HOME > Thelma Baby Name Meaning
Introduction
Choosing a name for your baby is an exciting and important decision. It's a name that will be with them for the rest of their life, so it's important to choose a name that has meaning and significance. Thelma is a beautiful and unique name that has a rich history and meaning. In this article, we will explore the origin, popularity, famous people with the name, and variations of Thelma.
Origin and Meaning of Thelma
Thelma is a name of Greek origin, meaning 'will, volition'. It was first used as a name in the late 19th century, inspired by the popular novel 'Thelma' by Marie Corelli. The novel tells the story of a young Norwegian girl named Thelma who falls in love with a British aristocrat. The name Thelma became popular in the United States in the early 20th century and peaked in popularity in the 1920s and 1930s.
Popularity of Thelma
Thelma was a popular name in the early 20th century, but its popularity has declined in recent years. According to the Social Security Administration, Thelma was the 87th most popular name for girls in the United States in 1900. Its popularity peaked in the 1920s and 1930s when it was a top 50 name. However, by the 1980s, Thelma had fallen out of the top 1000 names and has remained relatively uncommon since then.
Famous People with the Name Thelma
Despite its decline in popularity, Thelma has been the name of several notable people throughout history. Thelma Houston is an American singer and actress who won a Grammy Award for her hit song 'Don't Leave Me This Way' in 1977. Thelma Ritter was an American actress who was nominated for six Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actress. Thelma Schoonmaker is an American film editor who has won three Academy Awards for her work on films such as 'Raging Bull' and 'The Departed'.
Variations of Thelma
Thelma is a unique name that doesn't have many variations. However, there are a few similar names that you might consider if you like the sound of Thelma. These include Selma, Velma, and Wilma. Selma is a name of German origin, meaning 'divine helmet'. Velma is a name of English origin, meaning 'will'. Wilma is a name of German origin, meaning 'resolute protection'.
Conclusion
Thelma is a beautiful and unique name with a rich history and meaning. Although its popularity has declined in recent years, it's still a great choice for parents who want a name that's both classic and uncommon. Whether you choose Thelma or one of its variations, you can be sure that your child will have a name that's full of character and significance.
